The Dangers of Horse Racing
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Horse racing, also called Thoroughbred racing, is a form of competitive athletics in which racehorses compete over a distance. The sport has been practiced throughout the world since ancient times and remains an important part of many cultures.
The first known horse races were four-hitch chariot races held during the Greek Olympic Games in 700-40 bce. These events were followed by mounted (bareback) races, and eventually horse racing evolved into the sport we know today.
Early races were organized in various countries around the world, including China, Persia, Arabia, and the Middle East. In the Roman Empire, chariot races were popular but mounted races were more widespread and lasted for centuries.
Despite the advances in technology over the years, horse racing has remained true to its roots. However, with the rise of equine health and welfare, race safety has become one of the most important factors in ensuring the long-term health of racehorses and their jockeys.
The sport has changed significantly in recent years, with technological advancements such as MRI scanners and thermal imaging cameras allowing for greater safety on and off the racetrack. Moreover, 3D printing is increasingly being used to create casts and splints for injured horses.
Racehorses must be healthy enough to perform, but the stresses of intensive training and the misuse of drugs can lead to injury or even death. Add to this the fact that many young horses are forced to compete from very young ages, and you have a sport that is putting a lot of stress on the developing bodies of these animals.
Despite the efforts of some people in the industry to care for these animals, there are still numerous abuses and mistreatment of horses in the industry. PETA has released video that shows how racehorses are abused in multiple ways, and there is a strong likelihood that these abuses are not isolated to one individual or organization. Fortunately, the majority of trainers, assistant trainers, jockeys, drivers, and caretakers do not abuse horses. But there are certainly a lot of bad apples in the industry, and it is up to us as citizens of the planet to hold them accountable for their actions.